Bob Vila Radio: Holiday Fire Safety

Did you know that each holiday season in the US, fires cause nearly a billion dollars in damage? Keep your family safe as you deck the halls.

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Listen to BOB VILA ON HOLIDAY FIRE SAFETY, or read the text below:

If you buy a real tree, make sure it’s freshly cut and don’t leave it up longer than two weeks. A flame-retardant artificial tree can give you more tree time, but whether it’s real or artificial, keep your tree and decorations away from all heat sources, even vents.

Only use candles in sturdy, non-flammable holders that won’t be knocked over, and never leave the house or go to sleep while candles are lit.

Burning wrapping paper, tree branches or packaging in the fireplace can throw off sparks, fill the room with chemical gases and lead to chimney fires, so recycle them instead.

No home should be without working smoke alarms on every floor of your home, fire extinguishers, and an escape plan that you practice with your family.

Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.